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Top 10 Places to Visit in Washington, DC with Students

No other destination is richer in our nation’s history!

A Washington, DC tour is possibly the greatest field trip you can plan for your students. No other destination is more rich in our country’s history, and no other city provides so many incredible tour options per square mile. Read on for our 10 must-see sites.

A visit to the hub of representative democracy in our country should be at the top of any school tour of Washington. It is a gorgeous monument, a working office building and the forum of all national legislation. For a personal tour with extra access (and less lines), contact one of your U.S. Senators  or Member of Congress  and request a staff-led tour.

Visitors are welcome to tour the first two floors of the building that houses the highest federal court. Trained docents lead 30-minute programs that introduce the judicial functions of the Court, the history of the Building, and the architecture of the Courtroom. When the Court is in session, tours are available only after Court adjourns for the day, so be sure to check the Court calendar .

4. Lincoln Memorial

The world’s largest and most significant collection of aviation and space artifacts, this museum will provide students with a comprehensive history of human flight. For a bit of fun amidst the history, spring for an IMAX planetarium show!

7. United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

This museum strives to serve as a living memorial to the Holocaust, and inspire “citizens and leaders worldwide to confront hatred, prevent genocide, and promote human dignity.” Due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter, the Permanent Exhibition is recommended for age 11 and up. School groups should use the Museum’s online group reservation system .

8. Mount Vernon

Located just south of the District near Alexandria, Virginia, George Washington’s home offers a glimpse into 18th century plantation life and the beginning of our democratic nation. The Slave Life Tour  is an important addition to the tour of the mansion.

When Douglass bought the nine-acre estate of Cedar Hill he became the first African American to buy a home in the Old Anacostia neighborhood. The 21-room Victorian mansion tour and programs teach visitors about Douglass’ efforts to abolish slavery. Set high in the hills, the house and its grounds also open up onto one of the most breathtaking views of Washington.

10. Washington National Cathedral

The Cathedral is a spiritual resource for all faiths of the people of America. Tours, led by a Cathedral docent, provide an overview of the Cathedral’s art, architecture, history and mission.  Group reservations are required .

Have you taken students to Washington? What are YOUR must-see sites? Share in the comments!

Also, check out our best field trip ideas for every age and interest (virtual options too), you might also like.

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Washington, D.C. Field Trip Guide

Field Trip Ideas , Mid-Atlantic

There’s plenty of history to learn about in Washington, D.C., especially with so many great educational field trip ideas and iconic locations to visit.

Washington, D.C. , our nation’s capital, is a premier field trip destination populated with cultural institutions, government centers and world-class universities. Engaging museums (most of them free) and memorials that honor America’s past encourage students to create a brighter future. Washington, D.C., is a mecca of prodigious exhibitions providing phenomenal educational tours of significant historical sites, museums and cultural attractions.

Washington, D.C. Field Trip Ideas:

• National Mall
• United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
• John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
•  National Air & Space Museum
• Planet Word

Washington D.C. Field Trip Ideas for History & Heritage

Begin your Washington, D.C. field trip at the National Mall —the home to famous landmarks such as the Washington Memorial , Lincoln Memorial and the World War II Memorial . Honoring the 16 million Americans who served in the war, the structure consists of an oval fountain surrounded by two separate semi-circles of 28 stone pillars and a center archway on each end. The two arches feature bronze Baldacchino sculptures and represent the European and Pacific theaters.

While at the National Mall, visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum for incredible stories of unimaginable human injustices. They provide resource materials for teachers and group leaders to prepare students for self-guided tours of the permanent exhibits. These resources include a valuable student visitation guide – a handout that gets students to reflect thoughtfully on what they see and read.

Student field trip groups will also want to tour the National Museum of African American History and Culture . The museum chronicles the African American experience of slavery, Reconstruction and the Civil Rights Movement, as well as Black excellence in science, the arts and athletics, making it an incredibly educational field trip idea. Among the 3,500 artifacts on display include a shawl given to Harriet Tubman by Queen Victoria, training aircraft used by the Tuskegee Institute, an invitation to President Barack Obama’s 2009 inauguration and a boombox owned by Chuck D of Public Enemy.

Performance Arts Field Trips in D.C.

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is home to the world-class National Symphony Orchestra, Washington National Opera and the Suzanne Farrell Ballet. The expansive theater houses seven state-of-the-art venues and welcomes touring groups of 15-60 people. These tours feature the theater’s memorial to President Kennedy, a look at the art and decorations gifted to the theater from foreign supporters and a visit to the building’s rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city, which all makes for an unforgettable field trip experience.

You can also step into history at Ford’s Theatre , the venue where actor John Wilkes Booth fatally shot President Abraham Lincoln in 1865. Today the theater functions as part of the Ford’s Theatre Museum and depicts the event and Lincoln’s life while continuing to put on plays year-round. In addition to catching a performance of one of the theater’s upcoming shows, field trip groups can also tour the inside of the theater and learn about the events of that night on their own with a National Park Service ranger leading them or, in the spring or summer months, through a half-hour informational play depicting the assassination from the perspective of an audience member. 

Arts & Culture Field Trips to Washington, D.C.

Unlock some of Earth’s greatest mysteries at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History ( Smithsonian NMNH ) on the National Mall. This free museum showcases a vast collection of the world’s natural wonders, from fossils to the solar system. Admission is free, and while they aren’t offering guided educational tours, they provide exceptional in-person and online learning opportunities. Exciting programs are aligned with standards for grades K-12 and are led by trained museum educators.

In Northwest Washington, D.C., discover a celebration of verbiage at Planet Word , a literary museum highlighting the power of language. Groups are guided by museum staff through three floors of galleries and interactive exhibits. A compelling Speaking Willow tree greats visitors in whispers showcasing different languages. Groups receive a personalized introduction and knowledgeable guides are there to answer any word and language-related questions.

Washington D.C. STEM Field Trip Ideas

Students interested in engineering will want to explore one of the city’s signature attractions: the  National Air & Space Museum . This hall houses iconic aircraft like the 1903 Wright Flyer, Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis and the Apollo 11 command module, and various exhibits spotlight spacecraft, World War II aviation and flight in fiction. Field trip groups will especially enjoy “How Things Fly,” which features dozens of hands-on stations that invite visitors to push, lift and manipulate objects to learn the basic physics of flight.

Also on the National Mall is the United States Botanic Garden , one of the largest enclosed gardens in the world and home to constantly rotating exhibitions that encourage farming sustainability and biodiversity.

Marine & Aquatic Activities in D.C.

Groups looking for Washington, D.C., educational tours encompassing the water should visit AREC. The Aquatic Resources Education Center is a multi-use environmental education facility providing classrooms and aquaculture (water farming – harvesting fish, shellfish and marine plants). Explore more than 40 fish, amphibian, invertebrate and reptile species native to the Chesapeake Bay and District area. Field trips include aquatic-based environmental lessons and tours for pre-K through 12 th grade.

Explore the vast oceans at the Ocean Science Center located in the Smithsonian NMNH. Research scientists and museum educators bring forth marine biology, ecology, paleobiology, human impacts, marine geology and more for in-depth learning. They offer various educational aquatic programs for student groups and on-site excursions at the Sant Ocean Hall. The 23,000-square-foot exhibition examines 3.8 billion years of oceanic history and showcases more than 600 specimens. Watch an innovative video of global ocean data projected on a giant sphere and find colorful Indo-Pacific coral reef collections.

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Washington DC Field Trip Itinerary for Educators

Washington, D.C. is one the most popular field trip destinations in the United States. This suggested itinerary will help you get the most out of your time in our nation’s capital.

Check out an accessible PDF of our  Washington, D.C. Field Trip Itinerary for educators!

Before you go:

• Contact the National Park Service at Ford’s Theater  at 202-426-6924 .
• Contact the Smithsonian Institution or contact specific departments in the American History Museum.
• Contact the US Capitol to book a tour .
• Contact the National Museum of African American History and Culture for timed entry tickets .
• Show your class our Civil War Animated Map .
• Utilize our Civil War Curriculum .
• Apply to the  History Field Trip Grant Program .
• Contact your lodging and restaurant reservations to ensure everything is in order.

Ideal Itinerary if you are visiting for one-day:

Time: 5-6 hours

What to do:

Visit some of the FREE museums on the National Mall.

• 1300 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.
• 202-633-1000
• [email protected]
• 1400 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560
• 1-844-750-3012

Walk towards some of the FREE monuments and memorials in the National Mall. 

• Visit the Washington Monument and climb to the top for the best views of DC
• 202-426-6841

Most importantly, enjoy your visit!

If you are visiting for more than one day:

Same itinerary as above for the first day in addition to the following:

Get a free guided tour of the Capitol Building.

• You may need contact your local Representative or Senator if your group is larger than 15.

Get tickets to tour Ford’s Theater and the Petersen House where Abraham Lincoln was shot and eventually succumbed to his wounds.

• 202-347-4833
• Participate in a Ranger Program here !

Book a tour of the Arlington Cemetery .

• 1-877-907-8585

Restaurants that serve groups:

• 1726 Connecticut Ave, NW. Washington, DC 20009
• 202-849-6100
• ​ 901 I St NW, Washington, DC 20001
• 202-733-5333
• 600 14th Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20005
• 202-787-1000

Travel Tips:

• Renting a bus can be costly in the Washington DC area. Budget accordingly.
• Vehicle traffic is very heavy, and roads are congested throughout the day, especially during rush hour.
• The Mall is much larger than it looks on a map, and the distance between the Capitol Building and the Lincoln Memorial tricks many first time visitors. Plan you time and transportation methods accordingly.
• Get started early in the day. Crowds are smaller earlier in the day, which will allow you to explore sites more freely. 
• Most major Washington museums have security check points with metal detectors. On busy days it can take a while to get through security.
• April-June are the busiest months for field trips. Add to this time frame the National Cherry Blossom Festival, and vacationers, this means that the historic sites in the district can be jam packed.
• Washington was built on swamp land, which means it can be both hot and humid.
• Food carts and trucks around the Mall and other parts of Washington carry a wide variety of food and beverage. Most museums also have cafeterias and snack bars.
• Many of the Smithsonian museums carry band aids, sunscreen, umbrellas, and other necessities in their gift shops.

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Exciting Washington, DC Field Trip Itinerary For Families With Tweens and Teens

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Parents searching for the perfect Washington, DC field trip itinerary for families with tweens and teens are in the right place! From the Lincoln Memorial to Old Town Alexandria, The United States’ capital region features rich history and culture. Of course, this also makes it an extremely popular field trip destination for middle and high school students. But you don’t have to wait for your child’s school trip to visit Washington, DC and benefit from all the city has to offer. Here, we suggest the perfect DC field trip itinerary with your tweens and teens , as well as additional sights and seasonal activities to enjoy if you’re able to extend your stay beyond the typical long weekend. We’ve even included where to stay in Washington DC with kids, so keep reading to learn more! 

Day 1: Learn More about the United States’ Early History

One of the best parts about visiting Washington DC as a family is how you can witness early United States history come alive throughout the city. Whether you’re venturing to Virginia or staying within DC, here are our picks for a perfect Washington, DC field trip itinerary for families with tweens and teens. 

RELATED ARTICLE : 12 Best Hotels in Washington, D.C. for Families

George Washington’s Mount Vernon

No trip to DC is complete without a visit to Mount Vernon . Located outside of DC in Fairfax County, Virginia, it’s the home of the first U.S. president, George Washington. Of course, there’s plenty of history for your tweens and teens to take in here! Tour the Mansion or visit George and Martha Washington’s tomb to learn more about the property. You can also reflect at the slave memorial and stroll the grounds all the way to the Potomac River. If you want to invest a little more time, check out the daily program to see what specialty tours, character interactions, and classes at the Education Center are on offer. 

Search here for a tour of Mount Vernon with Viator!

Old Town Alexandria

Grab a bite to eat in George Washington’s adopted hometown – Alexandria, Virginia. With so many options across cuisines and budgets in Old Town, you won’t have trouble finding a great meal. For example, check out Blackwall Hitch for waterfront dining. Enjoy French fare like crepes at Fontaine Bistro . Grab some pizza at RedRocks . Or if you don’t need a place with a kids’ menu, The Majestic will not disappoint. While you’re there, check out some key historical sites. Take a self-guided walking tour to George Washington’s townhome and the Providence Tall Ship reproduction. 

Manassas National Battlefield Park

Round out your day taking in some of the historic Civil War sites around Manassas, Virginia. You can choose to start at Manassas Museum to get a lay of the land. Or, head straight to the battlefield where the first major land battle of the Civil War took place in 1861. There, you can explore the Henry Hill Visitor Center and join a park ranger on a historic walking tour. Or, watch a 45-minute film Manassas: End of Innocence . Are you a Civil Bar buff who wants to make a full day of it ? There are local hikes and a driving tour to round out more time in the area! 

Day 2: See Where Present-Day History is Made

If your kids want to see less of the past, you can also visit where present-day history is made. DC boasts famous destinations you can visit together like Union Station, the U.S. Capitol Building, and even the White House. All it takes is a little planning, so keep reading for our tips! 

RELATED ARTICLE : Best Washington DC Museums For Kids By Age

U.S. Capitol Building

At the  U.S. Capitol Building , families can see U.S. history being made; visit the Schedule a Tour page to make reservations up to 90 days in advance to tour the Capitol grounds. A 45-minute, guide-led tour takes visitors to the historic areas of the Capitol including the Crypt , the Rotunda, and Statuary Hall. You’ll need separate passes to tour the Senate and House galleries, which can be obtained by asking your Member of Congress. 

Book a Bus Tour of Washington DC here with Viator!

Union Station

Did you know Union Station dates back to 1907? Even with all its history, it’s still an important place in Washington DC today. So, it’s no surprise we’ve included it within our perfect Washington, DC field trip itinerary for families with tweens and teens!  Stroll over to take in the grand main hall and grab something to eat. There are local favorite chains like Cava and Chop’t, as well as a food court filled with national favorites. If you can, be sure to pass by the U.S. Supreme Court along the way. 

The White House

With enough planning, it is possible to visit the White House . Self-guided tours are generally available Friday and Saturday (excluding federal holidays) on a first-come, first-served basis. Requests can be submitted up to three months (and no less than 21 days) in advance by contacting your Member of Congress. Note that no bags are permitted, and there are no on-site storage facilities. You can also visit the White House Visitor Center to see historical artifacts, photos, and a short film; tickets are not required and the center is open from Wednesday through Saturday with a few exceptions. 

Browse Getyourguide.com for tours around the White House.

Day 3: Explore 19 th and 20 th Century History

Once you’ve gotten a glimpse at present-day DC history, it’s time to travel back to the 19th and 20th-century. From the National Mall to the place where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, DC truly has so much to take in. Keep reading for a perfect Washington, DC field trip itinerary for families with tweens and teens! 

READ MORE : 9 Things To Do in Washington DC with Kids

National Mall Monuments

Many of the monuments on the National Mall are located between 17 th and 23 rd Streets, NW. Wear your walking shoes and stop by memorials honoring some of the most memorable events and individuals from the 19 th and 20 th centuries. These include the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial , the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial , the Abraham Lincoln Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and t he World War II Memorial . Be sure to take a photo in front of the iconic Washington Monument, the world’s tallest stone monument! If you’re able, grab timed tickets to the top and view the Mall from a different perspective. 

Reserve your Washington DC: Monuments by Moonlight Nighttime Trolley Tour here through Getyourguide.com!

Ford’s Theatre

Learn about Abraham Lincoln’s legacy at Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site , the site of his assassination. While most known as a live-performance theater, there is also a museum to complement what children may be learning in school about Lincoln’s life and role in American history. Families can also take a self-guided tour that offers unique and informative exhibits; they showcase the highlights of President Lincoln’s presidency – from his swearing-in until the end of his life. Advance tickets are recommended, and the museum and theater are open daily. Grab lunch nearby at Jaleo , Matchbox , or Zaytinya .  

Arlington National Cemetery

Visit hallowed grounds with a trip to Arlington National Cemetery . Located just outside of DC in Virginia, this is the final resting place for select Americans who have served the nation. Families are free to explore the grounds on their own to visit President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, U.S. Army Gen. John J. Pershing’s gravesite, the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, and other notable memorials and gravesites. The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier occurs every 30 to 60 minutes. Arlington Tours also offers guided tour options. On your way back to your hotel, stop by the U.S. Marine Corps Memoria l for great views of the city! 

Reserve your Arlington National Cemetery Guided Walking Tour with Changing of the Guards with Tripadvisor here!

Day 4: Take in American Culture from Across Time

There are so many family-friendly museums in Washington, DC for kids of any age. Luckily, a lot of them are located along The National Mall, so you’ll be able to hit a few in one day. Here, we suggest a few options to choose from that focus on U.S. history and culture! 

National Museum of American History

Families looking to infuse some pop culture into their Washington DC itinerary with teens and tweens can head to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History ! Flanked by the National Mall, this popular DC museum attracts visitors of all ages, including those partaking in historical field trips. Play president behind the podium, learn about some of the country’s greatest inventors, and take in chic gowns worn by America’s First Ladies. You can also learn the history of the national anthem and soak in cultural icons like Dorothy’s red slippers from The Wizard of Oz. Enhance your visit by tapping into the audio tours on your personal device.

Reserve your Washington DC “See the City” Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour here with Viator!

National Air & Space Museum

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum offers many exhibits about U.S. history as it relates to flight; from the Wright Brothers’ first airplane adventure to the race to the moon and the exciting evolution of our universe. Families can experience aircraft large and small, interactive exhibits, and even get tickets for a space simulator. The number of aircraft on display varies, but families can benefit from recent renovations and at least eight exhibits on display. Grab some astronaut ice cream from the gift shop, and it makes quite the trip! 

National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture’s exhibits showcase the Civil Rights movement, the diversity of African American communities across the United States, and African Americans’ important cultural contributions to U.S. art, literature music, and more. As one of the best family-friendly museums in Washington DC , it gives families hours of compelling content to take in and experience. There’s even an exhibit about the making of the museum itself, so kids will find something of interest. Want to prep your kids before you go or give them fun activities to complete? The website has learning resources to enhance your visit. You can enter most Smithsonian Museums for free, though you’ll need timed-entry passes to visit this museum.  

Book your DC At Dusk Guided Night Tour with Viator here!

National Museum of the American Indian

The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian provides families with a deeper look into the culture and lives of those indigenous to the United States. Ideal for tweens or teens, the museum provides a special look at the Algonquian people of the Chesapeake region, and the American Indians local to the mid-Atlantic region, alongside several rotating exhibits. Uncover the philosophies and worldviews, historical events, modern-day life, and historic leaders of American Indian communities. In addition to compelling exhibits, the museum also has a fantastic food court – Mitsitam Café – that highlights relevant cuisines from various U.S. regions.

Look here for alternative things to do and see in Washington DC with Fever Up, such as Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience!

Monuments by Moonlight

Give your legs a break from all that museum hopping and take a Monuments by Moonlight Night Tour . Lasting around two and a half hours, the journey throughout downtown DC and into Arlington provides an enchanting evening among the city lights. The trolley makes several stops to capture photos and take in the views after dark. Along the way, you’ll pass the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial, as well as the FDR, Lincoln, Vietnam Veterans, Korean War, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorials. It’ll be a fun and educational experience for the entire family! Certainly, this is a fun addition to your Washington DC itinerary with teens and tweens .

RELATED: Amazing DC Field Trip Itinerary For Families With Elementary-Aged 

Seasonal Activities in Washington DC for Families

Customize your Washington, DC trip further with seasonal activities as time permits. If you visit in spring, the National Cherry Blossom Festival offers a street fair, parade, and kite festival while the cherry blossoms are in bloom. Summer brings the Smithsonian Folk Life Festival . From pumpkin patches to scenic hikes, we’ve also compiled our favorite fall activities in Washington, DC . During the holidays, there are unique offerings like displays at the White House and the U.S. Capitol and surrounding areas including National Harbor . And DC’s sports teams offer a fun experience year-round, whether cheering the Washington Nationals , Washington Wizards or Mystics for basketball, the Washington Capitals and D.C. United or Washington Spirit for soccer.  

RELATED ARTICLE : The Best Fall Activities Near Washington, D.C. for Families

Where to Stay in Washington DC with Kids

Wondering about the best hotels in DC for families ? Kids will love the indoor pool at The Watergate Hotel while parents will appreciate the spa. Meanwhile, The Ritz-Carlton Washington DC offers a special welcome package for little ones, plus fun activities like a scavenger hunt. Families can also stay near famous attractions like The White House or the U.S. Capitol Building by booking a stay at the Hyatt Place Washington DC. Or, venture outside the city center to DuPont Circle and stay at The Darcy for a more contemporary feel. For more information on where to stay in DC with kids , check out our top picks for family-friendly hotels in Washington, DC . Each neighborhood offers something unique for families, with kid-friendly amenities like pools, kitchens, and space to spread out! 

Explore District of Columbia Family-Friendly Rentals | Vrbo

Washington DC Interactive Map

Discover the best places to stay, restaurants, and local attractions in Washington DC, with our interactive map. You can filter by what you’re looking for, so it’s quick and easy to select which area you want to explore.

RELATED: 17 Best Dessert Spots In DC For Families

Enjoy Your DC Field Trip with Kids!

We hope you liked this Exciting Washington, DC Field Trip Itinerary For Families With Tweens and Teens! Whether you’re visiting for the first time or want to plan an educational trip, this itinerary will help you to plan an amazing, family-friendly field trip to Washington, DC. Enjoy taking in U.S. history and culture over hundreds of years with your teens and tweens and witnessing history in the making!

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel communityOI9 or are that of the atributed writer.

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School Year Field Trips

School year field trips.

Pre-K through 5th grade students are invited to play while visiting the Museum’s 20,000 square feet of STEAM exhibits. Designed by educators and aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards, Museum experiences complement classroom learning.

Please continue reading to reserve your field trip today!

what to expect

Select your grade level for details and workshop options.

early learner centers, pre-k, mixed pre-k + k

At this time, we do not offer workshop add-ons for these groups

K-1 workshop add-ons Add a workshop to your field trip and harness your students’ curiosity and creative power!

2-3 workshop add-ons Add a workshop to your field trip and harness your students’ curiosity and creative power!

4-5 workshop add-ons Add a workshop to your field trip and harness your students’ curiosity and creative power!

The rates below are available for field trips of 10 or more students. You will be invoiced based on the information you provide our team during booking. Payment will be due 30 days after your field trip is scheduled. For more information on the payment process and policies, please review our FAQs .

$15 per student

• free up to 1 adult per 5 students for all grade levels
• $15 for each additional chaperone
• We recommend 1 adult chaperone for every 5 students. Please read more about our chaperone requirements in our FAQs .

workshops are an additional flat fee of $150

• Students will be led through a hands-on experience by a trained member of the Museum Education Team.
• Workshops run for 30 minutes.
• Workshops can accommodate a maximum of 25 students. If you are interested in a workshop and have more than 75 students, you will need to visit the Museum over multiple days. We are unable to provide workshops for more than 75 students per day.

frequently asked questions

Do you offer title 1 funding.

The Museum is continuously working to secure funding to subsidize free field trips and workshop add-ons for Title 1 schools in DC, Virginia, and Maryland. If your school is eligible to receive support and funding is available at the time of your booking, our team will notify you.

Do you offer workshops for early learner centers or pre-k students?

How does a field trip complement curriculum standards, do you offer field trips during the summer, can we eat lunch at the museum.

The Museum does not have a field trip dining area on-site; however, nearby seating options are available, including the Woodrow Wilson Plaza, where your group can enjoy lunch outdoors (weather permitting) on benches and tables available for public use, and inside the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center’s large food court.

We recommend eating a snack prior to entering the Museum so your group has energy to play until you leave for lunch. Field trips are not permitted re-entry to the Museum after leaving to eat.

How long can we stay at the Museum?

How many students can you accommodate on a field trip.

The Museum can accommodate school groups of all sizes. If your group is larger than 170 people, please email our team directly at [email protected] . Ticket availability is based on a total of 170 tickets. For instance, if 50 tickets remain, it means 120 have been booked for the session block (am, midday, or pm).

Early Learner Centers, Pre-K, and mixed Pre-K and K groups over 50 students are encouraged to play in the Museum on Mondays.

Workshops can accommodate a maximum of 25 students, and we offer up to 3 workshops per day. If you are interested in a workshop and have more than 75 students, you will need to visit the Museum over multiple days. We are unable to provide workshops for more than 75 students per day.

How many chaperones do we need?

Our minimum chaperone requirements are:

• K-2: 1 adult required for every 5 students
• 3-5: 1 adult required for every 10 students

We recommend 1 adult for every 5 students. 1 adult per 5 students will receive FREE Museum admission at ALL grade levels.

What accessibility accommodations are available?

What is the museum’s group and individual waiver policy, what if i need to cancel or reschedule my field trip.

If you need to cancel or reschedule your field trip, please notify the Museum immediately by emailing [email protected] . Rescheduling is possible but dependent on availability.

Refunds will be made via the same method as the original purchase and are not available for cancellations made within 2 weeks of the field trip date or no shows.

What are the Museum’s COVID-19 policies?

Does the museum require a deposit.

A deposit is not required. The full field trip payment is due 30 days after scheduling.

Our team will be in touch within 5 business days of receiving your booking request. Once your field trip is scheduled, you will receive an itemized invoice based on the information provided in your booking request. Payment is due 30 days after your field trip is scheduled. If payment is overdue at the time of your visit, the Museum reserves the right to cancel your field trip.

How is payment made?

Our team will be in touch within 5 business days of receiving your booking request to schedule your visit. Once your field trip is scheduled, the field trip primary contact and billing contact will receive an itemized invoice from Quickbooks.

Full payment is due 30 days after your field trip is scheduled. The Museum prefers payment via credit card, but invoices can also be paid via check or ACH transfer.

You will be invoiced based on the information shared during booking. If more students and/or chaperones attend the field trip than were included in your booking form, the Museum will invoice you for the difference following your visit. Refunds are not available for changes in attendance or cancellations made within two weeks of the field trip date. Please note, if payment is overdue at the time of your visit, the Museum reserves the right to cancel your field trip.

If you have any questions regarding payment, please contact [email protected] .

What forms of payment does the Museum accept?

The Museum prefers credit card payment. The itemized invoice will include a link for processing the credit card payment and directions regarding accepted cards.

Payment by check or bank transfer is also accepted. Bank transfers must be initiated by contacting [email protected] . Checks should be mailed to the address below and reference the school name and invoice number in the memo.

1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington DC 20004

What if my field trip numbers change on the day of our visit?

Please notify the Museum immediately by emailing [email protected] .

We will do our best to accommodate groups with larger numbers than anticipated. However, the workshop classroom has a strict capacity limit due to safety considerations, and we reserve the right to turn groups away.

Please note, you will be charged for any persons in excess of the numbers provided in your booking request following your visit. Refunds are not available if fewer students and/or chaperones attend your trip than were included in your booking request.

Have additional questions? Contact us.

email: fieldtrips@ nationalchildrensmuseum.org

phone: call or text 202-849-5978

accessibility

Visit Dumbarton House with Your School

School groups, dumbarton house offers educational field trips for public school, private school, and homeschool students from kindergarten through 8th grade. our field trips are tailored to meet the common core school standards as well as dc and virginia school standards. at the moment, only groups of 20 or fewer people can be accommodated in person. larger groups can schedule virtual tours..

Virtual Programs

• To register for a virtual field trip, please complete a field trip request form .
• Virtual programs last about 1 hour and come with supplementary activity PDFs.
• Virtual programs are a flat rate for private groups: $50, $75 or $100; pay as you are able. A $25 deposit is required upon booking and counts toward the total cost. The full balance is due 3 days prior to the program.
• DC Public Schools and DC Public Charter Schools are always free. 
• Virtual groups must have a minimum of 5 students and a maximum of 40 students unless otherwise agreed upon.
• Virtual programs are available Monday through Friday.

In-Person Trips

• To register for an in-person field trip to Dumbarton House, please complete a field trip request form .
• In-person programs last about 2 hours and include a craft activity and snack. 
• In-person programs cost $7 per student and $5 per chaperone (the first chaperone is free and one chaperone is required for every 10 students). A $25 deposit is required upon booking and counts toward the total cost. The full balance is due 1 week (7 days) prior to the program.
• In-person school programs are available Tuesday through Friday.
• Groups must have a minimum of 5 students and a maximum of 40 students can be accommodated. If you have a larger group, please contact the Education Department to discuss available options.

Program Descriptions

Time Travels: Students grades K-2 travel back in time and experience life as a child living in the Capital’s earliest days! Students explore what it was like living 200 years ago using their five senses, make a special period craft, play early American games, and enjoy a light snack. Grades K-2.

Capital Quest: Students become history detectives on this quest through Washington D.C.’s past. By spying for clues, examining primary sources, and strengthening map skills, students will uncover the rich history of the nation’s capital. Discover why Washington D.C. was chosen as the capital city and explore the lives and ideals of early Americans who shaped the nation. In addition to an interactive tour, a supplemental activity packet is provided.  Grades 3-5. 

Parthenon to Portico:  What does America have in common with Ancient Greece? Students learn how America was influenced by this great civilization by comparing Classical Greek and American ideals of government, art, and architecture. Using  a supplemental activity packet and  elements of Classical Greek architecture and their own imagination, students can design a public structure.  Grades 3-8. 

Changing City: Tobacco, Transportation, and Georgetown: Delve into the founding of Washington DC through the port of Georgetown and its undeniable ties to the tobacco industry. Using primary sources, uncover the links between the tobacco trade, money, city growth and enslavement in this urban setting. Learn about the people who lived and worked in Georgetown and depended on trade from the perspective of three historic sites: Tudor Place, Dumbarton House and Georgetown Heritage.  Grades 3-5.

Farm to Table:*  Students learn how food travels from the farm to their kitchen table on this interactive tour of the herb garden and historic period rooms. After the tour, the students plant a seed to take home!  This program integrates science, social studies, and nutrition to teach students about food production, healthy eating, and reducing our carbon footprint. Grades 3-8. 

*Offered spring/early fall

Homeschool Groups and Learning Pods

• September: School and Fun – What would your school and social life been like if you lived during the Federal Period? Students will learn about their homeschool routine 200 years ago, as well as what they would have done for fun outside of their lessons.
• October: Art at Dumbarton – A picture is worth a thousand words so during this program students will read art pieces in the house to better understand artistic tools, mediums, and techniques. Students will also be challenged to create their own still life drawings using different artistic mediums.
• December: Winter Warmth –  Students will compare and contrast their experience of winter weather and the Christmas holiday with that of the Nourse family. End by making your very own gingerbread house to take home! 
• February: Love Letter – Celebrate love and family as you learn more about the Nourse family! Learn how the family communicated across long distances 200 years ago and use a quill pen to create your own love letter. 
• April: Bygone Games – With a scavenger hunt, students will tour the museum to learn what life would have been like for children. Afterwards it’s time to learn and play period games! Make your own toy to take home.

Dumbarton House offers a number of additional homeschool programs if requested  two weeks in advance . These programs cover various seasonal topics about life in the early capital city. Programs include:

• School and Fun : What was life like for children in the Federal period?
• Harvest Time : What did people eat and where did they get food 200 years ago?
• Patriotism and Presidents : Learn about American history and symbolism.
• Time Travelers : Explore what life was like 200 years ago by using all your senses.
• Winter Warmth : Learn about how people stayed warm before central heating.
• Parthenon to Portico : Discover the Classical Greek and Roman influences on Dumbarton House and other buildings.
• Communication Through Time : Practice the art of letter writing and learn about the postal system.
• Art at Dumbarton : Use close-looking skills to learn about artistic techniques using the art in our collection.

Pricing For homeschool programs, pricing is $7 per participating child and $5 per adult. There is a $40 minimum to schedule a private homeschool program (e.g. 5 children, 1 adult.) A non-refundable $25 deposit is required to hold a requested date, which will count towards the final payment (due  48 hours  before the program). 

Maximum capacity: 40 children

Accessibility

The Museum’s programs are available to all students as the hands-on programs are developed to connect with all learning styles. Given enough notice, Museum Educators can adapt programs to fit the specific needs of your students. The museum is wheelchair accessible.

Explore Early American History From New Perspectives

• (202) 337-2288
• [email protected]
• 2715 Q Street NW. Washington, DC 20007-3071

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STEM Experiences to Add to a School Trip to Washington D.C.

In an era of constant technological advancement and discovery, learning through STEM- based activities is encouraging the next generation of scientific thinkers to keep driving us forward. STEM opportunities abound in Washington, D.C., with a multitude of student programs now designed with STEM in mind.

Team building, problem-solving, and critical thinking are all integrated into these four interactive experiences that can be added to your D.C. itinerary.  

Science at the  KID Museum

KID Museum’s  Explorer Program  encourages kids to think creatively and innovate! Students learn about the physics of flying, the movement of electricity, and the power of wind by completing experiential challenges.

The Explorer Program is geared toward elementary and middle school students and is offered as a 90-minute activity. Groups also can request half or full-day customized workshops that focus on design, engineering, electronics, or computer coding. The KID Museum is located about 20 minutes outside of Washington, D.C. in Bethesda, Maryland. 

Technology at the International Spy Museum

With hundreds of spy gadgets on display, secret tunnels, touch screens, and the largest collection of espionage artifacts in the world, the International Spy Museum is a big hit with middle and high-school students.

The museum also stands out for the many workshops it offers on STEM topics. In Forensics of Espionage , students learn about the science of spies by using real-life FBI techniques to root out a double agent! This 45-minute activity, based on accounts of former FBI scientists, is built around a story of intrigue and espionage. Students examine four pieces of evidence from a “dead drop” site, including writing samples, fingerprints, and a muddy boot print, to try and determine which of the four suspects is a double agent.

Participants use real forensic analysis equipment, including an Electrostatic Detection Apparatus ( ESDA ), which employs an electrostatic charge to expose indentations in paper. Working in small teams, students use critical thinking, teamwork, and real-world spy technology to identify the mole in their midst.

The International Spy Museum moved to a new home in 2019 at L’Enfant Plaza, just south of the National Mall.            

Engineering at the National Building Museum

A visit to the National Building Museum brings architecture, engineering, and history alive in a dazzling display of brick and steel.

Originally built as the Pension Office for Civil War veterans, the Building Museum is housed in one of the grandest structures of the 19 th century. Today, the museum offers exhibits and programs about the built environment, including hands-on engineering demonstrations.

The Discovery Cart program allows students the opportunity to test out real-world engineering challenges. Participants learn how building materials, gravitational forces, and time affect the longevity and strength of structures. The program focuses on the physics of bridge types or arches and trusses.

Under the direction of museum staff, students work in teams to design, build and test the strongest structure, either a bridge or an arch. With plenty of space to work out what makes the best bridge, students discover the reality of gravity and the challenges of engineering in this STEM-focused experience. The National Building Museum is located in the Chinatown neighborhood of Washington, just outside the Judiciary Square metro station. 

Math at the National Cryptologic Museum

The National Cryptologic Museum is a window into the world of code-making and code-breaking. The museum is located next to the NSA’s headquarters at Fort Meade and features thousands of machines, media, and artifacts from U.S. cryptologic history.

The museum also offers in-depth, STEM-focused programs that open the world of coding to young minds.

After an introduction to the museum, students are sent on their own fact-finding scavenger hunt to locate and explain various artifacts in the collection. They examine the world’s earliest supercomputers, learn how to decode secret German transmissions, and decipher encrypted messages on an actual WWII Enigma Machine.

After the scavenger hunt, students spend the next hour in the classroom with instructors learning the history, science, and math behind codes.

Groups can also add on an optional “Math Talk” with current NSA employees on a variety of subjects, including cryptanalysis, game theory, and cybersecurity.

The National Cryptologic Museum is about 45 minutes outside of Washington, D.C. in Annapolis Junction, Maryland near BWI Airport. It is currently closed to renovations but should reopen in the Spring of 2022.    

The  SCHOOL TRIP BLOG  is written by NationsClassroom’s licensed tour managers, guides, and teachers. Written from their years of experience with student groups, the articles feature exciting attractions from the most popular student travel destinations on the historic East Coast and helpful advice for educational group travel leaders.

For more information about planning an educational group trip to Washington, D.C., please browse information about our Washington, D.C. tours or contact us for more information.

Originally published March 2018, updated October 2021

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Washington, D.C. green STEM trips will create lifelong memories for your students. Educational Destinations offers a variety of Washington, D.C. STEM trip opportunities. If your students are ready to learn about droughts, sea levels, glaciers and ice caps through an interactive Earth Lab exhibit at the National Academy of Sciences, explore the National Geographic Museum rotating exhibitions or learn about sustainable farming techniques at the University of the District of Columbia, Educational Destinations will make your Washington, D.C. STEM trip rewarding and memorable.

Educational destinations is the 1st choice for washington, d.c. stem trips and washington, d.c. education travel..

Find out why Educational Destinations is the 1st choice in educational Washington, D.C. group tours

View our 2 minute intro video to see what Educational Destinations can do for your group.

Encourage your students to build homo-polar motors while learning about electricity and magnetism at the National Electronics Museum. Using basic electronics, everyday objects and some creativity, students are challenged to create a signaling device in a Spy Science workshop at the International Spy Museum. While in D.C., enjoy the grand museums and engaging attractions. Washington, D.C. has so much to offer your students that are ready to open their minds to STEM!

 Below are some popular options for your educational STEM trip. You can also click on the PDF icon for a download of these features.

Educational STEM Opportunities

• Coding Bootcamps
• Chemistry Workshops
• Campus Tours
• LEGO Robotics Workshops
• Fundamentals of Robotics
• Advanced Concepts of Robotics
• 3D Printing Workshops
• Spy School 101
• Forensics Mystery Workshops
• Operation Code Cracker
• Q?rius School Programs
• The Human Body Experience
• Draper Spark!Lab
• Investigate Microscopic Fossil Pollen
• Solving Complex Problems with Simple Machines
• Aquatic WILD
• Soldering Workshops
• View the DC Electric Vehicle Grand Prix
• Watershed Educational Experiences
• Rock Creek Conservation Corps
• Naturalist Training
• Youth Stream Teams
• Environmental Challenges
• Overnight Environmental Science Programs
• Student Matinee Speakers
• Invention At Play Exhibit
• 3D Character Animation Programs
• Coding and Artificial Intelligence Programs
• 3D Modeling + Design Programs
• Game Design Programs
• Project Learning Tree
• Project WILD
• Growing Up WILD

STEM Attractions

• National Air and Space Museum
• Howard University
• George Washington University
• Koshland Science Museum
• National Geographic Museum
• Udvar-Hazy National Air & Space Museum
• International Spy Museum
• National Museum of Health and Medicine
• National Museum of American History
• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
• National Electronics Museum
• NatureBridge
• The Nature Conservancy
• Audubon Naturalist Society
• Washington Youth Garden
• Virginia Native Plant Society
• Virginia Master Naturalists
• Rock Creek Conservancy
• Department of Energy & Environment
• The Aquatic Resources Education Center
• The North American Amphibian Monitoring Program
• Bricks 4 Kidz
• Flatiron School
• Digital Media Academy

Other Attractions

• Arlington National Cemetery
• Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
• Embassy Row
• FDR Memorial
• Ford's Theatre and the Petersen House
• Illuminated Monument Tour
• Jefferson Memorial
• Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
• President Lincoln's Cottage
• Virginia Living Museum
• Library of Congress
• Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial
• Mount Vernon
• Lincoln Memorial
• Anderson House
• White House Tour
• WWII Memorial
• U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing
• U.S. Capitol
• U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum
• Union Station
• United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
• Washington Monument
• Washington National Cathedral
• Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
• Tudor Place
• Old Post Office Pavilion
• Old Stone House
• Heurich House Museum
• The National Theatre
• Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument House & Museum
• National Archives
• Potomac River Cruise

The Trip Account app is offered to our groups as they travel.

Included in your trip, group leaders, staff, chaperones and travelers will use the information packed, versatile Trip Account App during their travels.

Powerful Director Tools

Interactive Checklists, Pop Up Communications, Emergency Notifications.

Tools for all travelers

Live Itineraries, Group Messaging, Photo Gallery and much more.

Everything you need for your next trip .

The Trip Account app is available for iPhone and Android.

See our difference

It’s no surprise that Educational Destinations sets and exceeds student travel standards. We aim to provide the best service, communication, experience and safety for all of our groups. When researching for your travel provider, please download this PDF checklist HERE to ensure that your group is taking advantage of all of the essential building blocks of a successful, safe, and FUN trip! If you have questions or are ready to get started on your next trip, please call 800.616.1112 or request your customized quote .

Custom Designed Trips

ED will create a custom designed trip for your group that is shaped by your priorities, goals and wishes, and powered by your passions. ED is committed to listening and working one-on-one with you to build the perfect trip for your students. There are no stock trips here - just your trip.

Group Travel Specialists

Led by award-winning teachers, ED exceeds the needs and expectations of students, teaching staff, parents and administrators. ED anticipates group needs and delivers group wishes, without surprises or hidden costs. Our experience and expertise enable us to bring the best quality trips, events, experiences and opportunities to your group.

All-Inclusive Price

ED’s custom trips are cost-effective and inclusive, without hidden costs – a great value for your travelers. Charter coaches, flights, hotels, meals, sightseeing, events, taxes and gratuities are covered for each traveler. A 24/7 Emergency Contact System is included for each traveling group.

Cutting Edge Technology

Through ED's parent company, ED is the only student travel company providing Trip Account , an internet-based program that provides you a complete trip resource center 24 hours a day. Also included in your trip is the Trip Account App: Music Directors, group leaders, staff, chaperones and travelers will use the information packed, versatile Trip Account App during their travels.

Personal Tour Director

A signature feature of every trip is the ED Tour Director , always right by the teacher’s side, managing all travel aspects of your trip: transportation, events, meals, lodging, tickets and more. Our TD’s training and management skills let the teacher focus on the students and education.

Safety is Priority #1

ED is pro-active on safety, sending the Tour Director World Aware® alerts, sharing best practices in travel safety, emergency procedures and travel hints with chaperones and staff, ensuring traveler accountability, monitoring vendor service/performance and tellng travelers of changes or emergencies with the Trip Account App .

Trusted Leader in Travel

ED is an active member of these respected travel suppliers and organizations: Walt Disney World & Disneyland, Universal Orlando, American Bus Association, National Band Association, National Tour Association, Student Youth Travel Association and more. View all ED’s partners and awards here .

Doing the right thing

ED is deeply committed to high quality educational group travel. We love what we do, and we work hard to do it better than everyone. Creating memorable performance trips that leave positive, life-changing impressions on your students and community is a privilege that we don’t take lightly. Please talk to us about your next trip.

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Hear from our valued clients throughout the world.

Since 1987, Educational Destinations, led by passionate, award-winning teachers, has become the first choice for educational student group travel. By listening to teachers, providing cutting edge technology and unmatched service, and having dedicated ED Tour Directors conduct trips, Educational Destinations has built an unmatched reputation. Focused on designing custom trips that provide educational, memorable, and rewarding student travel experiences, Educational Destinations successfully partners with customers to do just that, in destinations within the United States and worldwide. Decades of combined travel expertise, earned in dozens of countries, enables Educational Destinations to anticipate performance needs and deliver group wishes, without surprises or hidden costs.

I wanted to write and tell you what a terrific job you did with our trip. I’ve been traveling since 1980 and this was the easiest trip ever for me. I simply had to do nothing but teach! It’s hard to believe it’s taken me this long to get it right, slow learner! The students and parents have had nothing to say but wonderful things…

Nan Moore Male High School

You have been so wonderful with our parents and students throughout the entire course of this tour. I am so glad we signed on with Music Travel Consultants/Educational Destinations as you gave our group the red carpet treatment every step of the way.

Janis Stackhouse Bloomington High School North

Music Travel Consultants/Educational Destinations is top-notch. The professionalism of the staff and their attention to detail is a director’s dream come true. My students and I have traveled with them four times over the past several years and I can say that “I won’t leave home without them!

Jena Adrianson Lawrence Central High School

I can’t say enough good things about Educational Destinations. They had everything covered and it was a relaxing and fun trip. My students and parents commented that it was the best trip we have ever taken. I’m ready to plan another trip with this company.

Brenda Bergman Jay County School Corporation

I recently had the pleasure of going on a Disney Trip with our band from Eastern High School in Greentown, IN. I was skeptical about going but am so glad I did. My Grandson and I came in rather late and had no problems whatsoever in getting onto your site, paying for our trip, and having confirmation that we were good to go.

Dianna Workinger Greentown, IN

Being able to trust implicitly the people who are planning what we will see, the timing of the itinerary, and the traveling arrangements is comforting not only to our staff but also to our parents. For our parents to know that this is a company that we use year after year with great results gives them the peace of mind that their children will experience the safest trip possible.

Mrs. Kathy Schubel Principal, St. Bartholomew Catholic School

I wanted to thank you so much for such a great trip! Our kids had a wonderful time and I could not imagine how we would have seen all that we were able to see without having you organize this trip for us.

Angie Remington Madison-Grant Elementary Students

I have worked with Educational Destinations on a yearly basis since 2001 and ED is the best educational travel group our school has ever worked with. It is refreshing to know that during the course of a trip that if any questions or problems arise, we have the consultant, whom we have worked with all year, right there with us to answer all questions and take care of the tickets and timing. It makes the trip very relaxing and enjoyable and a trip our kids never forget.

Darrin Russell 8th Grade U.S. History, Mitchell High School

I have been coordinating educational field trips for my school for the past 10 years and could not be happier with Educational Destinations. From the very first brainstorming session to the moment we return home from our trip, Educational Destinations works tirelessly to make sure our trips are memorable and successful. They are always quick to answer my questions, which I truly appreciate. Michael, Robin, and Ryan have been fantastic to work with over the years and I highly recommend them!

Kris Samick Spencer-Owen Community School Corporation

Educational Destinations has taken the stress out of planning and traveling with a large group. As a teacher, I am now able to actually enjoy the time I have with my students instead of worrying about all of the necessary details. From the very first contact made to the last moment of the trip and beyond, each and every person we have interacted with from Educational Destinations has been professional, concerned about fulfilling our needs, and exceptionally conscientious.

Linda Crady History Teacher, Sycamore School

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School Trips in DC: What Visitors Need to Know

Participating in one of the multi-day school trips in DC is a right-of passage for many 8th graders across the U.S. If you are not visiting with one of these groups but coming to DC between mid-March and mid-June, these are a few things you need to know.

What is school field trip season?

School trips in DC are a huge part of the local tourism industry. Most schools send eighth grade class trips. This is why you will also occasionally hear referred to as “eighth grade field trip season”. Eighth grade is usually the class that gets to come to DC because it’s a final reward before the kids head off to high school.

Trip Hacks DC offers tours specifically designed for school groups . We have led tours with students in fifth grade all the way up to 12th grade. Our tours are best for small schools who don’t pay for an all-inclusive package. For large schools, these services might make more sense.

When is school field trip season?

School group trips in DC typically happen at one of two times during the year. The big one is in the spring, roughly from mid-March through mid-June. There is also a secondary field trip season in the fall roughly from early October through Thanksgiving.

If you’re trying to avoid field trip season the months you want to consider for your trip are: December, January, and February in the winter, and July, August, and September in the summer. Most schools choose to come in the spring because it’s an end-of-the-school-year reward. Plus, the students get to spend all school year learning about social studies and history and then they get to come to DC and see things up close.

Fall field trip season is much less busy since most schools don’t want to do the trip at the beginning of the school year.

How will field trip season impact your trip?

The most important thing to know is that school groups travel together in large packs. So, if you are visiting the memorials, there might be four groups of 50 students or more at once. This can really change the feel of some of the sites, particularly smaller memorials like the Vietnam and Korean War memorials.

School groups are only in DC for a limited amount of time. They need to maximize that time as best as possible. That means that during the day they’re going to be at the sites that are only open from 10 to 5. This includes the museums and the other indoor sites. Then, after dinner, they are going to head out and tour the monuments and memorials. This is because there are not a lot of evening activities you can do with big groups of teenagers.  

The bottom line is that if you’re visiting during spring field trip season you’re going to be sharing those monuments and sites with a lot of other people.

Where do field trip groups eat?

As far as restaurants go, school trips groups in DC tend to stick to a limited number of places. For lunch they go to food courts. The food courts at Union Station, L’Enfant Plaza, the Reagan Building, and Pentagon City Mall are all popular choices. Food courts are ideal for school groups because they’re cheap and they give the students a lot of different choices. For dinner, they go to the inexpensive restaurants that can accommodate groups. This includes places such as the Hard Rock Cafe, Buca di Beppo, Carmine’s, and similar chain places.

Where do school groups stay?

School groups usually stay at suburban hotels because they travel on charter buses. Thus they do not need to be near Metro. Suburban hotels usually offer group rates to schools. Although, you will occasionally see school groups staying downtown, especially if they’re a small group who doesn’t have a charter bus. So if you plan to stay at a downtown hotel and eat at mostly local restaurants, you are probably not going to bump into too many of these groups at those places.

Coming to DC and want to book a tour? Trip Hacks DC was founded by Rob, a veteran tour guide in the Nation’s Capital. Trip Hacks DC provides tips, tricks and travel hacks for planning your trip; and guided tours to show you around once you get here. Our tours are family and school group friendly and our guides specialize in the major Washington, DC sites.  Click here to check out the upcoming tour options  and to book your tour here today!  Feel free to contact us if you have any tour questions

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Trip planning resources.

• DC Airports: a Guide to Navigating DCA, IAD and BWI
• The Ultimate Washington DC Travel Guide (2023)
• Hotels in DC: A Guide On Where to Stay
• The 5 Best Local Washington DC Tours
• Washington DC Trip Planning: Trip Hacks DC E-book
• Packing for Washington DC: What To Bring for Your Trip

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Washington DC School Field Trip Ideas

One of the perks of living in the Baltimore area is the proximity to Washington DC, especially when it comes to school field trips. Washington DC has several historic attractions along with beautiful scenery and architecture throughout the city. Here’s a closer look at why your school should consider taking a Washington DC school trip, and some tips to help you plan the trip.

Planning A Washington DC School Trip Itinerary

Keep in mind that planning DC field trips can become expensive. While you’ll likely receive free admission to different government owned attractions, you are still responsible for your group’s hotel accommodations, as well as food and transportation.

The National Mall is one of the premier destinations in Washington DC. The National Mall runs from Capitol Hill to the Lincoln Memorial. While traveling through the National Mall, you can visit The National Archives, Washington Monument, and National Air and Space Museum. The Library of Congress, Ford’s Theater, and The International Spy Museum are also around the city.

Popular Washington DC School Field Trip Ideas

The US Capitol hosts several important pieces of American art. The US Capitol has become a signature piece of American democracy. The US Capitol Visitor Center gives you the opportunity to learn about The Senate, House of Representatives, and overall history of American democracy. Featured exhibits at The US Capitol include The Women’s Suffrage Banners and Lincoln Table.

Supreme Court

You are welcome to tour the first two floors in The Supreme Court. Sign up for a 30 minute tour that outlines the judicial functions of the court, the history of the building, and the architecture of different courtrooms. You can view portraits of former Supreme Court justices. You also have the option of participating in different courtroom lectures and exhibitions.

Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most powerful landmarks in Washington DC. The monument features a large sculpture of President Abraham Lincoln, along with the inscriptions of his most famous speeches. The Lincoln Memorial was also the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s famous “I Have A Dream” speech.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum has one of the World’s largest collections of aviation and space artifacts. The museum will provide students with a thorough look at the history of human flight. The National Air and Space Museum holds over 50,000 artifacts, including rockets, uniforms, engines, documents, and spacesuits.

Mount Vernon

Located near Alexandria, Virginia, Mount Vernon is the estate of President George Washington. Mount Vernon gives visitors a look at the origins of United States democracy, as well as plantation life during that time period. You can tour George Washington’s Distillery and Gristmill, blacksmith shop, and spinning house.

Changing Of The Guard Ceremony

The Changing of The Guard Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery is a tribute to veterans who served the country. As part of the Ceremony, the guard is changed at The Tomb of The Unknowns every hour from October to March and every half hour from April to September. Tomb Guard Sentinels watch over The Tomb of The Unknowns 24 hours a day regardless of the weather conditions.

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum allows tourists to learn more information about the Holocaust. Visitors are encouraged to exercise human dignity and prevent genocide. The American Witness exhibition gives visitors the opportunity to listen to the experiences of people who witnessed the impact of The Holocaust.

The White House

While you are welcome to view the historic residence outside through the black gates, setting up an inside tour will allow you to visit The President’s office. You can also visit several public rooms.

Choose A Charter Bus For Your DC Field Trips

While you are organizing these details and ideas, don’t forget the transportation! Choose a charter bus for your field trip to help you travel around DC easily and affordably. A charter bus will help ensure that you enjoy a smooth and stress free school trip.

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WASHINGTON DC-METRO Field Trips

To help plan JUNE enriching focused activities, field trips or end of the school year celebrations, these June themed celebrations might be a helpful focus. MONTHLY CELEBRATIONS : African-American Music Appreciation. Camping Month. Effective Communication. Great Outdoors. Gun Violence Awareness. Immigrant Heritage. LGBTQ+ Pride. National Pollinators. National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable. National Safety Month. National Zoo and Aquarium. DAY CELEBRATIONS : June 1- National Say Something Nice Day. June 4 - Seaweed Day. June 6-National Yo-Yo Day. June 7 - Daniel Boone Day. June 8 - World Oceans. June 14 - Flag Day. June 16 - World Sea Turtle Day. June 19 - Juneteenth. June 29 - National American Eagle. June 21 - Summer Solstice. June 22 - World Rainforest Day. June 26 - Forgiveness Day. CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below for activity type of field trips to learn about.  

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Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery honors events and members from all branches of the military, and also pays respect to astronauts, nurses, chaplains, war correspondents, just to name a few.

Art Museum of the Americas

The Art Museum of the Americas collects the visual arts of the American states, with a significant number of works reflecting the diverse artistic expression of the 20th century.

Atlas Performing Arts Center

The Atlas Performing Arts Center is a historic and cultural anchor in the Northeast community of Washington, DC. The Atlas presents stellar art in theatre, dance, music, vocal and choral work, spoken word, and more.

Audubon Society of the District of Columbia

The Audubon Society of the District of Columbia works at various nature centers in Washington, DC to promote the appreciation and conservation of birds and their habitats.

Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument

A national monument, the museum celebrates women’s progress toward equality through exhibits that explore topics such as suffrage and important figures of the Women’s Rights Movement.

Bureau of Engraving and Printing

At the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, visitors learn all about U.S. paper currency, see millions of dollars being printed and view an introductory film on the production process.

Cameron Run Regional Park

Cameron Run Regional Park features a variety outdoor recreational activities like batting cages, mini-golf, and a wave pool all within an urban area. Cameron Run is a one-stop shop for sun and fun.

Carlyle House Historic Park

The Carlyle House served as the headquarters of British General Braddock during the French and Indian War, which is where he and five colonial governors planned their early campaigns.

Chesapeake Bay Foundation

Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) offers many one-day and residential opportunities for students in DC, MD, PA, and VA to get outside and learn about the wonders of the Bay region.

Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center

The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center builds the future of the arts by educating, training and presenting the next generation of artists and creative innovators.

Common Good City Farm

Common Good City Farm is a place where community members can source fresh food, see sustainable urban agriculture in action, and gain exposure to concepts and skills for leading healthy lives.

Corn Maze in The Plains

The top corn maze in the DC area, Corn Maze in The Plains offers fun for all ages and more than just a walk through the stalks–pumpkin patch, hayrides, animals, and more!

FieldTripDirectory.com offers field trip ideas for class trips, scout group trips, camp group field trips, and homeschool group field trips in Washington, DC—for early childhood through college. Search for class trips in Washington, DC by group type, cost, activity/curriculum type, grade level, distance, and venue name or keyword. Day class trips are divided by curriculum and subject area:

• ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Find Washington, DC art museums, theater, dance, and music concert field trips.
• EARLY CHILDHOOD Find class trips to Washington, DC children’s museums, petting zoos, and kids’ shows.
• HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES View Washington, DC history museums, government & civics, historic sites, living history museums, and multicultural field trip ideas.
• LIFE SKILLS Find Washington, DC team building field trips, health & safety exhibits, and character education experiences.
• SCIENCE & NATURE Find Washington, DC aquariums, botanical gardens, environmental studies & nature centers, farms & mazes, planetariums, science museums, STEAM & STEM field trips, dinosaur exhibits, and zoos.
• RECREATION Find Washington, DC field trip ideas for adventure parks, ropes courses, ziplines, boat excursions, amusement parks, waterparks, kayaking, rafting, tubing, laser tag paintball, roller skating rinks, ice-skating rinks, mini-golf attractions, indoor amusement & recreation centers, and outdoor amusement & recreation centers.

Overnight field trips & retreats are available for environmental education, team building, and recreation. We created field trip lesson plans to help teachers, scout leaders, camp counselors, and homeschool parents provide an enriching experience for their groups. We know funds for class trips are limited, so we’ve included grants for field trips that cover admission, transportation, and more. It’s important that students and youth explore new environments, learn about other cultures, and develop an understanding of inclusivity as part of the educational process. People learn in different ways—through hearing, seeing, touching, talking, or doing. Class trips can provide a multi-dimensional learning experience. FieldTripDirectory.com can help you find the right trip for your group. A world of experiences is just a click away at FieldTripDirectory.com.

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Washington, D.C. Field Trips

Field trips are a great way to reboot a bad homeschooling week, get out of the house when everyone has cabin fever, and learn about your local area. Before heading out, check out Jeanne's tips for improving homeschool field trips .

Our listing of Washington, D.C. field trips for homeschoolers is ordered alphabetically by city. If you would like to submit a Washington, D.C. field trip destination, you may do so using the red button above.

Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place of more than 400,000 fallen heroes from the fronts of Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as the veterans of World Wars I and II, the Korean conflict, Vietnam, the Cold War and America's Civil War. Established in 1864, the cemetery is still fully operational today, conducting an average of 27 funerals each day.

Arlington National Cemetery website

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First thoughts of the Chesapeake Bay often bring up images of crabs and oysters. But, as the largest estuary in North America, the Chesapeake Bay has touched and influenced much of the American story -- early settlement, commerce, the military, transportation, recreation and more. The Bay and its surrounding 64,000 square mile watershed hold a treasure trove of historic areas, natural wonders and recreational opportunities.

Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network website

The National Capital Trolley Museum preserves and interprets the heritage of electric and interurban railways of Washington, DC and environs for the benefit of present and future generations, while supplementing its collections with significant national and international objects to enhance its interpretive programs.

National Capital Trolley Museum website

Officially established in 1965, National Mall & Memorial park contains some of the oldest protected park lands in the National Park Service. The areas within National Mall & Memorial park provides visitors with ample opportunities to commemorate presidential legacies; honor the courage and sacrifice of war veterans; celebrate the United States commitment to freedom and equality.

National Mall & Memorial park website

Experience the Corridor of Commerce First Imagined by George Washington. The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail is a partnership to develop a network of locally-managed trails in a corridor between the mouth of the Potomac River and the Allegheny Highlands.

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail website

This is the "Road to Adventure" -- originally designed as a grand gateway and greenway to the Nation's Capital. Here, you can learn about the First President and the development of America. As an oasis amid urban development, the Parkway has a variety of park sites that provide opportunities for everything from quiet contemplation to nature exploration to active recreation.

George Washington Memorial Parkway website

Visit the gardens and church where replicas of special points of importance from the Holy Land of Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Nazareth and Rome are presented with pilgrimage tours by experienced guides at 10 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 2 pm and 3 pm daily. Larger groups can make reservations

Franciscan Monastery website

A 446-acre living museum 2 miles from the Capitol: gardens, collections, bonsai museum, herb garden, azaleas, flowering cherry trees, and the original columns from the Capitol. Seasonal weekend tram tours and guided tours by appointment. The grounds are open Fridays through Mondays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm; the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum is open Fridays through Mondays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. The grounds are closed to the public Tuesday through Thursday and December 25th. Admission is free.

National Arboretum website

Open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4:30 pm. Lectures in the courtroom are given every hour on the half hour 9:30 am to 3:30 pm when court is not in session. Admission is free.

Supreme Court of the United States website

On October 27, 1907, Union Station officially opened at 6:50 a.m., when the Baltimore and Ohio Pittsburgh Express pulled into the Station. It is modeled in the monumental Beaux-Arts style and after the Baths of Caraculla and Diocletian and the triumphal Arch of Rome. Union Station's arches symbolize its primary function as a gateway.

Union Station website

The Smithsonian National Postal Museum features the history of the nation's mail service and showcases the largest and most comprehensive collection of stamps and philatelic material in the world. Open daily 10 am to 5:30 pm except Dec. 25. Free admission. In addition to student tour programs, the website offers curriculum guides and classroom resources to supplement student learning.

National Postal Museum website

Sparkling in the sun on a breezy day, this natural area of Anacostia Park has origins in a 1926 act authorizing park to preserve forests and natural scenery. The park reflects the history of the nation's rivers and wetlands. Come, join the dance.

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens website

Science Program Reaching OUT (SPROUT) is Washington Youth Garden's field trip program that serves youth and educators from the Washington metro area to visit to our demonstration garden site at the U.S. National Arboretum. Pre-K through 12th grade students are invited to participate in a 90-minute interactive garden science experience based on one of five themes: Garden Basics, Soil and Compost, Pollination, Nutrition, and Food Systems (6th grade and above). We also maintain a large herb garden, compost area, and several educational theme gardens that change annually! There's tons to explore!

Washington Youth Garden website

Learning that Delivers! The National Postal Museum offers a creative selection of programs that attract a wide audience base of all ages, genders, ethnicities, and interests. Whether it be a workshop, film, family program, lecture, or performance, the Museum's Postal Pastimes provide participants with a quality visitation experience that makes learning exciting, enriching, and interactive.

he National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) is the only museum in the world solely dedicated to celebrating the diverse artistic achievements of women. The collection includes more than 4,500 objects representing the work of women from the 16th century to the present, including Mary Cassatt, Frida Kahlo, Alma Thomas, Lee Krasner, Louise Bourgeois, Chakaia Booker and Nan Goldin. Admission is free to youth age 18 and under. The first Sunday of the month is FREE admission to the museum.

National Museum of Women in the Arts website

Permanent collection of European and American paintings, sculpture, decorative arts and works on paper, plus changing exhibitions of art from around the world. Open Monday through Saturday 10 am to 5 pm, and Sundays 11 am to 6 pm except New Year's Day and Christmas. Free admission. Website offers onsite educational materials and at home lesson plans in art history and art appreciation.

National Gallery of Art website

The National Portrait Gallery features the men and women who have made significant contributions to the history, development, and culture of the United States. Students can participate in an interactive, themed gallery tour facilitated by specially trained gallery educators. These programs are standards-based and complement curricula in art, history, social studies, and language arts.

National Portrait Gallery website

The Smithsonian American Art Museum, the nation's first art collection, features art from the colonial period to today. The museum is the home to one of the largest and most inclusive collections of American art in the world. Highlights are images of the American West, Works Progress Administration murals, impressionism, folk art, photography, video and media art, works by African American and Latino artists, and modern and contemporary art. Open 11:30 am to 7 pm daily except Dec. 25. Admission is free. Website has many educational resources for your visit as well as at home use. Check out the "Which artists shares your birthday?" page.

American Art Museum and the Renwick Gallery website

Carter Godwin Woodson was an African-American historian, author, journalist and the founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The website offers historical information about Carter Godwin Woodson for those who cannot visit in person.

Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site website

Mary Jane McLeod Bethune was an American educator and civil rights leader best known for starting a school for African American students in Daytona Beach, Florida, and for being an advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The website offers historical information about Mary McLeod Bethune for those who cannot visit in person.

Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site website

The oldest house in Washington, built in 1765 by a cabinet maker. Tours given by Park Rangers. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. Open all year. Please call (202) 895-6070 for group tours of 10 or more. Closed all federal holidays.

Old Stone House website

The most prominent, as well as one of the older, attractions in Washington, D.C. It was built in honor of George Washington, who led the country to independence, and then became its first President. The Monument is shaped like an Egyptian obelisk, 555' 5/8" high, and averages 30 to 40 miles visibility in clear weather. It was finished on December 6, 1884. Tickets are required to visit the interior of the Washington Monument.

Washington Monument website

Explore the world and all that's in it at the National Geographic Museum. The museum is great for all ages and features a wide range of changing exhibitions, from interactive experiences to stunning photography exhibitions featuring the work of National Geographic explorers, photographers, and scientists. The Museum is open daily from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (closed December 25). Children age 5 and under are free.

National Geographic Museum website

The National Museum of American History showcases national treasures, from the Star-Spangled Banner to the Ruby Slippers. Free Admission. Open Daily except December 25th. Daily programs and hands-on activities are available. Website offers educator and kid resources for field trips and at home learning.

National Museum of American History website

The Phillips Collection is a modern art museum featuring paintings by Renoir, Rothko, Bonnard, O'Keeffe, van Gogh and Diebenkorn. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm. Visitors ages 18 and under are free.

The Phillips Collection website

This memorial is a sculpture commemorating the more than 209,145 Soldiers who served in the United States Color Troupes during the Civil War. Website provides lesson plans for further studying African American and the Civil War.

African American Civil War Memorial and Museum website

Dumbarton House, one of the finest and houses in the United States, reflects the emerging Adamesque style of architecture of the early Republic, and has an outstanding collection of Federal period furniture and decorative arts.

Dumbarton House for Kids website

Headquarters of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America. It "is... one of the very finest and most beautiful houses in the United States," according to architectural historian Fiske Kimball, consulting architect for its original restoration. Dumbarton House reflects the emerging Adamesque style of architecture of the early Republic, and has an outstanding collection of Federal period furniture and decorative arts. Dumbarton House is a historic house museum in Washington DC that welcomes Girl Scouts, homeschool students, and other children for a variety of youth programs about history and the Federal period in the capital city! Our programs are targeted for children ages 5-12. In addition to a calendar of events, we are happy to schedule private group programs as well. See all our offerings on our website at https://dumbartonhouse.org/education!

Dumbarton House website

The Crime Museum provides visitors insight into our nation's history of crime and its consequences, law enforcement, forensic science, and crime scene investigation through a captivating, interactive, entertaining, and educational experience.

Crime Museum website

Enter the shadow-world of spying where all is not what it seems and your students will discover a new way of thinking about the world in which they live. The International Spy Museum is committed to educating students and educators about espionage in an engaging way and to providing a context that fosters understanding of its important role in and impact on current and historic events. The Museum provides FREE classroom lessons, resources, and activities that support traditional curriculum.

International Spy Museum website

Part of the Smithsonian Institution, admission is free. Open every day except Dec. 25 The museum boasts the 45.5-carat Hope Diamond, dinosaurs, Insect Zoo, the Mammals Hall, and the world's largest African bush elephant. The Museum website provides both field trip related and non field trip related lesson plans, web-based activities for students, and other resources that help teach a range of science and natural history topics.

National Museum of Natural History website

Houses the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights and more than 3 billion records. Visit the newest exhibit: The Public Vaults. Open daily 10 am - 5:30 pm except Christmas. Free admission. Students can participate in hands-on document-based programs while visiting exhibitions.

National Archives and Records Administration website

Preserving America's colorful Canal era and transportation history, the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park is 184.5 miles of adventure. Originally, the C&O Canal was a lifeline for communities and businesses along the Potomac River as coal, lumber, grain and other agricultural products floated down the canal to market. Today millions of visitors hike or bike the C&O Canal each year to enjoy the natural, cultural and recreational opportunities available.

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park website

The Old Post Office, built between 1892 and 1899, is home to the Bells of Congress, which were a present from England on our Nation's Bicentennial. From the observation deck, located 270 feet above the street level, the visitor can get a spectacular view of our nation's capital. Built in 1899, the Old Post Office's clock tower offers panoramic views of Washington, D.C. The tower houses the Congress Bells, a Bicentennial gift from England commemorating friendship between the nations.

Old Post Office Tower website

President's Park is the area in front of the White House where the Christmas tree is located. The website offers historical information about the park for those who cannot visit in person.

President's Park website

Dedicated in 1976, Constitution Gardens serves as an oasis within the bustling city for visitors, residents and wildlife. A memorial island in the middle of an artificial lake has stones bearing the names and signatures of the fifty-six men who signed the Declaration of Independence. Their pledge to freedom exists as a living tribute within this natural setting celebrating the U.S. Constitution.

Constitution Gardens website

In January 1999, the Civil War Memorial Museum opened to the public. Using photographs, documents and state of the art audio visual equipment, the museum helps visitors understand the African American's heroic and largely unknown struggle for freedom. The museum is located two blocks west of the Memorial in the historic Shaw neighborhood. To assist visitors, researchers, and descendants of USCT, the Museum also offers important educational and research tools.

African American Civil War Memorial website

Deliberately setting aside the controversies of the war, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial honors the men and women who served when their Nation called upon them. The designer, Maya Lin, felt that "the politics had eclipsed the veterans, their service and their lives." She kept the design elegantly simple to "allow everyone to respond and remember."

Vietnam Veterans Memorial website

Rock Creek Park is one of America's largest and oldest city park and one of the first urban natural areas to be set aside by Congress for the enjoyment of the people. The Park includes Peirce Mill, The Old Stone House, a nature center, riding stables, tennis courts, a golf course, 30 picnic areas, playing fields and an extensive network of trails for walking, jogging and cycling.

Rock Creek Park website

One of the smallest national cemeteries in the country. The cemetery is the final resting place for 41 of the Union soldiers who fought at the nearby Battle of Fort Stevens, the only Civil War battle fought in the District of Columbia, and the only military engagement in United States history in which the president came under direct fire.

Battleground National Cemetery website

Built in the 1820's, and operated commercially until 1897. The United States Government acquired the mill as part of Rock Creek Park in 1892. Currently the mill is not operating. It is being preserved and ultimately will be made operable again when sufficient funding for repairs is made available. Peirce Mill is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Peirce Mill website

Among the world's most famous streets. It is known the world over as the heart of the Nation's Capital. The website offers historical information about the park for those who cannot visit in person.

Pennsylvania Avenue website

One of the most visited sites in the nation's capital. Celebrate the legacy of Abraham Lincoln and explore the American experience through theatre and education.

Ford's Theatre website

Saturday Morning at The National offers free admission to the 9:30 and 11:00 children shows.

National Theatre Children's Program website

The Nation's performing arts center, presenting the best music, dance, theatre, international, and children's programs in nine theaters and stages. Free performances at 6pm daily. Free tours, and free shuttle from Foggy Bottom Metro. The WNO Washington National Opera has a program which allows younger students to do an opera look-in for $6, and a older students are offered tickets to dress rehearsals for $15.

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts website

The Shakespeare Theatre Company offers free tickets to show through a program called Free Will. Every Monday at noon tickets for shows can be claimed for the upcoming week for free.

Shakespeare Theatre Company at the Harmon Center for the Arts website

Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Zoo is the nation's zoo. It is a 163-acre zoological park set amid Rock Creek National Park in the heart of Washington, D.C. Like all things Smithsonian, The National Zoo offers free admission. Open daily except Dec. 25. The website offers online lesson plans and resources. The zoo offers education classes and seminars from preschool through adults.

National Zoo website

The National Building Museum is America's leading cultural institution devoted to the history and impact of the built environment. The museum tells the stories of architecture, engineering, and design. Looks for special free events in the fall and winter for children and their families. Curriculum Kits provide all of the resources and materials needed to offer Museum programs in your own classroom across the country. A variety of Educator Resource Packets containing numerous lesson plans are available for educators free of charge.

National Building Museum website

Visit the Thomas Jefferson Building, known for its magnificent 19th Century architecture and decoration and changing historical exhibitions. Guided tours at half-past each hour. Kids have fun at interactive kiosks, using the Passport to Knowledge, and visiting the Young Readers Center.

Library of Congress website

Born into slavery, Frederick Douglass was a runaway slave, abolitionist, civil rights advocate, author and statesmen. Visitors to the site learn about Frederick Douglass' efforts to abolish slavery and his struggle for rights for all oppressed people.

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site website

The museum welcomes all K-12 visitors to learn about naval history through artifacts, workshops, and guided tours. The museum can tailor the learning experience for specific group requirements. We specialize in STEM learning and social emotional learning experiences. The museum can design a program to fit children's learning needs. We also have treasure hunt activities related to our sculpture garden located just outside the museum at beautiful Willard Park. At the moment the museum is only open on Saturdays, from 10am to 4pm.

National Museum of the U.S. Navy website

By 1865, the Union army had constructed 68 forts, 93 detached batteries for field guns, 20 miles of rifle pits, 3 wooden blockhouses, 32 miles of military roads, several stockaded bridgeheads, and four picket stations.

Civil War Defenses of Washington website

Beneath the bustle of Washington, DC, the song of a meadowlark joins the sounds of friends, families, and fun. Authorized almost a hundred years ago as a multiple use park, Anacostia Park serves as a playground while protecting the natural scenery and water quality of the Anacostia River. The park serves as an example of how far-sighted urban planning serves today's generation as well.

Anacostia Park website

National Capital park-East includes 13 park sites, parkways and statuary covering more than 8,000 acres of historic, cultural, and recreational parklands in DC.

National Capital park-East website

The Fort was a civil defense fortress for Washington DC, protected the capitol from southern sympathizing Marylanders. Its garrison and guns never saw battle, but instead houses runaway slaves. The website offers historical information about the fort for those who cannot visit in person.

Fort Dupont Park website

The George Mason Memorial, dedicated on April 9, 2002, honors the little known but widely felt contributions of an important Founding Father. The memorial is located in East Potomac Park near the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Born in 1725 George Mason wrote the Virginia Declaration of Rights and later attended the Constitutional Convention in 1787.

George Mason Memorial website

Official site from the From the National Park Service. Honoring the men and women who served in the controversial Vietnam War, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial chronologically lists the names of more than 58,000 Americans who gave their lives in service to their country. Offers a Junior Ranger program for kids to use onsite at the wall.

Located in downtown Washington, DC, the memorial honors Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy and the struggle for freedom, equality, and justice. A prominent leader in the modern civil rights movement, Dr. King was a tireless advocate for racial equality, working class, and the oppressed around the world.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial website

The Smithsonian's Museum of Asian Art. Admission is free. The museum is open every day except December 25th. The Museum offers family programs and online guides for students. Check out Teacher resources or downloaded materials. The collection is digitized so virtual visitors can view collections from home.

Freer Sackler website

The Bureau of Engraving Tour and Visitor Center is a great place to learn all about U.S. paper currency. You can see millions of dollars being printed as you walk along the gallery overlooking the production floor! The free 40-minute experience includes an introductory film and gallery tour of the production process. The visitor center includes exhibits and currency products for sale. The Tour and Visitor Center is closed on weekends, Federal holidays, and the week between Christmas and New Years Day. Tickets are needed from March to August and are first come first serve during these peak months. Groups of ten or more need tickets. The website offers a variety of youth education materials that are free of charge and can be downloaded.

U.S. Bureau of Engraving & Printing website

The National Museum of the American Indian is committed to advancing knowledge and understanding of the Native cultures of the Western Hemisphere, past, present, and future, through partnership with Native people and others. The museum works to support the continuance of culture, traditional values, and transitions in contemporary Native life.

National Museum of the American Indian website

The National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC has thousands of objects on display, including the 1903 Wright Flyer, Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis, the Apollo 11 Command Module Columbia, and a lunar rock you can touch. On site, there is also a Planetarium, IMAX Theater, and Public Observatory. Admission is free to the museum. Closed December 25th. Visitors enjoy daily tours and educational activities for both children and adults. Online educator resources, lectures and videos available for those who cant visit in person.

National Air and Space Museum website

The National World War II Memorial commemorates the sacrifice and celebrates the victory of the of the WWII generation. Friedrich St.Florian's winning design balances classical and modernist styles of architecture, harmonizes with its natural and cultural surroundings, and connects the legacy of the American Revolution and the American Civil War with great crusade to rid the world of fascism.

National World War II Memorial website

The only thing we have to fear is fear itself. These are the words of our 32nd President, a man who truly knew the meaning of the word courage. Despite, at age 39, being stricken with polio and paralyzed from the waist down, he emerged as a true leader, guiding our country through some of its darkest times: the Great Depression and World War II. The FDR Memorial honors this man and his story.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Park website

The words of Thomas Jefferson, some written more than 200 years ago, have shaped American ideals. Today, many of these impressive, stirring words adorn the interior walls of his memorial. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial stands as a symbol of liberty and endures as a site for reflection and inspiration for all citizens of the United States and the world.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial website

Iconic DC historical site. The website offers historical information about the park and the President for those who cannot visit in person. Offers a Junior Ranger program for students

Lincoln Memorial website

A National Park Service historic golf course. East Potomac Park Golf Course is located on The Mall with three courses, a heated/covered driving range, practice holes, putting area, GolfDC Academy, mini golf, pro shop and grille. Players 18 and under pay a reduced rate.

East Potomac Park Golf Course website

Southeast of the Lincoln Memorial, 19 sculptures stand under the watchful eye of a sea of faces upon a granite wall. This is a reminder of the human cost of defending freedom.

Korean War Veterans National Memorial website

This program is based in the heart of the nation's capital at the confluence of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers. While aboard the Bea Hayman Clark, CBF's research workboat, participants test water quality, perform plankton studies, trawl for fish, and learn about the local features that impact the ecological integrity of the surrounding waterways. This is a unique opportunity to explore a hidden side of D.C., discover a diverse watershed of the Chesapeake, and investigate a habitat that few people are able to witness. Program Capacity: Up to 30 participants (including chaperones), grade 4 and above.

Chesapeake Bay Foundation: Potomac River Environmental Education Program website

During his lifetime, John Ericsson revolutionized several facets of technology. The Swedish-born engineer-inventor is best known for his work during the Civil War when he transformed naval warfare through his design of the iron-plated USS Monitor. The movements of Ericsson's pencil across his drafting board were as crucial to victory as the movements of Lincoln's armies across battlefields.

John Ericsson National Monument website

Located in Washington DC, check out the website for information about the museum. Visit request form is available online for those wishing to visit our nations capital.

American Red Cross Museum website

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund is the official website of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. The site hosts virtual tours of the wall, offers name rubbings, and provides personal biographies of some of the service members lost in the war.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund website

Exploring the art and artists of our time through groundbreaking exhibitions, performances, and a world-class collection. Free Admission Open daily 10 AM-5:30 PM

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden website

Welcome to the Audubon Naturalist Society, the largest and oldest independent environmental organization in the Washington, DC region. A pioneer in linking conservation activities with environmental education, ANS:

Audubon Naturalist Society School Programs website

Capitol Hill park includes those park areas between 2nd Streets NE and SE and the Anacostia River. Included in this group are Folger, Lincoln, and Marion park, the Maryland Avenue Triangles, the Pennsylvania Avenue Medians, the Eastern Market Metro Station, the Potomac Avenue Metro Station, Seward Square, Twining Square, Stanton Park, and 59 inner-city triangles and squares.

Capitol Hill park website

A system of over 150 park, refuges, museum, historic communities and water trails in the Bay watershed. Each of these sites tells a piece of the vast Chesapeake story.

Officially established in 1965, National Mall & Memorial park contains some of the oldest protected park lands in the National Park Service. The areas within National Mall & Memorial park provides visitors with ample opportunities to commemorate presidential legacies; honor the courage and sacrifice of war veterans; celebrate the United States commitment to freedom and equality.

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Washington, DC (Grades K-5)

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Even the youngest of students will appreciate the treasures, history, and beauty that their nation’s capital has to offer. Explore the architecture and artifacts that make Washington fascinating for all to see.

Video length: 24:29 minutes.

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National Standards for this video

State standards, learning resources with this video*.

Quiz – PDF

Quiz – Online

If I Went to Washington, DC

Interview A Veteran

Video Breakdown for Discussion

Visiting the Smithsonian

Draw A Scene – Washington: K-5

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National Standards

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Classroom Ideas 

Washington, d.c..

National Treasures

Choose a national treasure to research and have students share what they found out about it.  

If I Went to Washington, DC...

Students create a list/powerpoint of   their top five notable sites that they would like to visit and explain why.

Have students print out a map of Washington, DC and identify where the sites in the video are located.

The Smithsonian

Students will research one significant object on display at the Smithsonian, writing a report on its history and significance.

Honor Those Who Serve

Discuss ways on how we as citizens can honor those that served or currently serving in the military, e.g.send a box of items with a thank you note to a student’s parent or family member that is currently serving overseas.

Cloze Practice

A cloze piece has full sentences used in the virtual field trip with blanks where students can write in the information that is missing. This task requires close listening to the trip in order to complete it.

Landmark Sites

Have each student choose an interesting site and make a replica of it as well as a paragraph written to explain why that site was chosen.  

Create a diorama of Washington, DC’s landmarks. Students could also just focus on the famous buildings in the video.

Have students interview a veteran and ask them about his/her experiences while  being in the military. If you have a local VA Home nearby, contact them to see if there is anything that your students can do to help.

American Wars

Students will learn about the different war memorials in Washington, D.C. Ask them to choose one war to research and write a report on.

Art and Social Studies

Draw a scene from the video you just watched.

Play Travel Agent!

Ask students to write a travel itinerary for visitors to Washington, D.C. Depending on the amount of time you want to devote to this project and the age and interests of the students, you could make this quite an involved project, involving lots of research and finding images. Work could be presented in a variety of different ways, including possibly a PowerPoint presentation.

Washington D.C. Crossword Puzzle Race

Assign students a crossword puzzle on Washington, D.C. that tests the knowledge they have gained from the video. Make this a race, giving a prize related to Washington to the student who correctly completes the crossword puzzle first.

Create Quizzes

Students create a quiz based on the information presented for their peers. This can be used as a review for a test, or jigsaw class activity where students are responsible for teaching other students assigned topics.

Choose A President

Students can choose a president to do a research presentation to discuss president’s background history, what he was known for, interesting facts, etc.

Running the Government

Visit your local city hall and/or state capital to find out more information about how the city and state governments are similar to the federal government. Find out how they create new laws. Discuss opportunities in which older students can become directly involved in their state and federal government.

Build A Landmark

Use various craft materials to build a model of one of Washington, DC’s landmarks. Discuss how a model is a smaller version of a large structure.

Discussion Topics

Have students talk about the five areas: honoring past presidents, honoring those that have served in the military, Washington as the nation’s government, Washington’s national treasures, and interesting sites. Ask them which was most interesting to them and have them tell you why.

Natural vs. Manmade

Explore the concepts of natural wonders vs. manmade structures. Research how various Washington, DC landmarks were created.

Classroom Ideas for ALL Videos

Here are dozens and dozens of ideas that you can use in your classroom along with our videos!

Topics Covered In This Video

Washington – location & formation

Washington Monument

Lincoln Memorial

Jefferson Memorial

Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial

Arlington National Cemetery

Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers

U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial

Korean War Memorial

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

World War II Memorial

White House

Supreme Court building

Capitol Building

National Archives & Historical Documents

James Smithson & The Smithsonian Institution

National Museum of Natural History

National Air and Space Museum

National Museum of American History

National Mall

FBI Building

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Videos in this Series

Washington, DC (Grades 6-9)

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This One Guy Made the Washington DC Field Trip a Middle School Rite of Passage

No, not the cherry blossoms. It’s the middle school T-shirt, the unofficial signal that spring has sprung in the nation’s capital.

Every year, more than one million eighth graders—about one in every three —can be seen running up and down the National Mall in matching school-colored tees, pacing awkwardly in the Smithsonian , taking lunch at the L’Enfant Plaza and Pentagon City food courts, and racking up soda fountain tabs at the Hard Rock Cafe.

A field trip that started as a business idea has since evolved into a decades-long tradition, bolstering economies and creating entirely new ones . And while it’s become the subject of debate in school districts from Ohio to Massachusetts , in DC, it remains both a fact of life and a total vibe .

Filling the Void

It was quite a different experience from what you might expect of DC tourism these days. In the 1960s, due to political strife and moral resentment against America’s involvement in Vietnam, many young people didn’t have an interest in visiting the president’s house. Bus companies and airlines took note, leaving a void for trips centered around our nation’s history for younger generations. Moreover, Wendel tells me that during his initial trip, “I’m listening to some tour guide who’s probably been picked off the corner, and he’s lecturing kids.”

Convinced he could do better, Wendel coordinated the following year’s trip with a fellow teacher, attempting to give his students a more academically driven experience. The year after that, he founded Lakeland Tours solely to coordinate travel for eighth graders to DC Wendel sold Lakeland Tours in 1999, but he estimates the company helped bring a million students to DC overall; the company is now known as WorldStrides , one of the largest student tourism companies in the country.

All the while, much larger trends were emerging as well. One of the most important—beyond the rapid growth in air travel—was the evolving access to museums. In the early 20th century, museums were seen as bastions of elitism, a place where culture lived but only existed for those deemed worthy of entry. “Culture for culture’s sake was what the Smithsonian meant to its lay visitors,” wrote Louise Connolly in her 1914 book, The Educational Value of Museums . “Young people led through it contracted, not the museum habit, but museophobia, a horror of museums.”

But that sentiment began to change heading into World War II with the rise of the museum as an educational companion (the concept of “visual education,” i.e., using visual aids to enforce concepts , was introduced in the early 1920s). No longer were museums reserved just for the upper echelons; they were a place to engage, learn, and question, no matter who you were.

Today, museums welcome approximately 55 million students from school groups .

How Do You Do, Fellow Kids?

For three to five days—the usual length of the trip—students are whisked around the city from dawn until dusk. It’s not atypical for every day to last from 8:30 am to 10 pm, says Lindsay Hill, the associate director of visitor experience and group tours at Destination DC, where she helps tour groups coordinate with tour operators. She says the jam-packed days are a win-win for everyone involved: Students get to see as much of the city as possible, and there’s less time for them to get into trouble (more on that later.)

The usual stops are the usual suspects: the US Capitol, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the MLK Jr. Memorial, several war memorials, the Smithsonian Museums, Arlington National Cemetery, the National Zoo, the Holocaust Museum, and the Ford Theater. (All of these landmarks are free to visit.) You might also have been lucky enough to get a tour of the White House (also free but more challenging to plan), meet your local congressperson, or travel by boat to Mount Vernon to tour George Washington’s landmark estate. Or better yet, maybe you were whisked around DC in an amphibious World War II vehicle — as part of a so-called “duck tour”—allowing you to view landmarks by land and water (a tour that, sadly, no longer operates).

Meanwhile, the Hard Rock Cafe serves as a beacon of sustenance that helps to fuel all that sight-seeing. The Hard Rock not only plans for these travelers—a student group-focused menu, including a soda, entree, and chocolate chip cookies for dessert, ensures that students are “in and out in about an hour,” says Sara Lester, a regional sales and marketing manager at Hard Rock Cafe—but it relies on them, too. Case in point: Through March and April of this year, they’ve welcomed a total of 25,000 eighth graders, putting them on pace to reach 50,000 students by the end of the field trip season.

Not to mention, the Hard Rock isn’t without some political significance. Among its many pieces of music-themed memorabilia, two, in particular, speak to our nation’s history/sense of patriotism: 1) a saxophone played by President Bill Clinton; and 2) a red, white, and blue outfit worn by Beyoncé.

Not-So-Unruly Behavior

“Eighth graders are in a unique position where they’re big enough to be self-reliant, but not so big that they’re going to run out and create havoc in the streets,” explains John Raymond, the vice president of sales and marketing of student tourism company Grand Classroom, which oversees the travel of some 20,000 students to Washington, D.C. annually.

Raymond estimates that over the course of three decades, there have been just five or six instances where students were sent home on a trip. If anything, such rarity speaks perfectly to the eighth-grade mindset. “You don’t want to be outside of the herd. You don’t want to draw unnecessary attention to yourself,” Raymond says.

It helps, too, that the trip isn’t cheap—prices average from $2,000 to $3,000 per student. Additionally, parents must sign a liability waiver that holds them responsible for any financial damages incurred by their child, and no kid wants to have that conversation with mom and dad.

That said, if there is a mischievous will, eighth graders will surely find a way, an attitude that prompted Wendel, while at Lakeland Tours, to hire enlisted military members to sit outside students’ hotel rooms to ensure they didn’t sneak out at night. “That isn’t to say that the kids didn’t win some of the battles,” Wendel says. “But once we had a lights out or a curfew, with about 99% certainty, we were able to keep the kids confined to their rooms.”

It’s worth noting, too, that any havoc the students create is often unintentional and harmless. Or, in true eighth-grade fashion, just plain awkward. “I was accidentally locked in my hotel bathroom during my eighth-grade field trip to DC,” recalls Dan Howie, now a recruiting manager from North Carolina. “Maintenance had to come in and drill through the lock. It took about two hours for them to get me out, and there was quite an audience waiting to see if I’d emerge. It certainly added to my eighth-grade cool-kid mystique.”

The Kids Are Alright

As a result, what may be thought of as a few days for students to get away from their parents and vice-versa—a pitch that Wendel used while working at Lakeland—has become an opportunity for personal growth and cultural exposure. “Getting outside of your home base and what’s comfortable for you is where the change in perspective and the ability to really understand different cultures and people’s backgrounds comes from,” Hill says.

For that alone, maybe it’s worth the trip—matching T-shirts and all. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on  Instagram ,  TikTok ,  Twitter ,  Facebook ,  Pinterest , and  YouTube .

Colin Hanner is a freelance writer based in Chicago. He writes about food, travel, and whatever else he’s interested in.

8 best things to do with kids in the D.C. area this weekend

Music, festivals, farm tours and more.

Looking for something fun to do with kids in the D.C. area this weekend? Here are our top picks.

Greek Festival at St. Sophia’s Cathedral

For fans of roast lamb and homemade spanakopita and loukoumades, it doesn’t get much better than this annual festival at St. Sophia’s Cathedral near Woodley Park, which features three days of food, music and dancing. Greek bands perform at 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, while folk dancers, DJs and children’s groups are featured throughout the weekend. There are long lines for gyros and souvlaki cooked over coals (smell them and you’ll understand why), while the “Taverna” serves Greek beer and wine. A bazaar features Byzantine icons, jewelry, CDs and Greek soccer scarves, while a moon bounce and games keep the kids busy. If you’ve never visited St. Sophia’s before, tours are offered on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Friday from 4 to 10 p.m., Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. Free.

Music in the Meadow at the National Arboretum

Bring a picnic to enjoy while watching the concert in the Arboretum’s Ellipse Meadow, featuring local neo-cumbian band Cumbia Heights. This event, supported by the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities, is pay-what-you-can. Note that ticketing is only for concert access; the grounds won’t be open during the show. Friday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. $25 recommended ticket price.

Fiesta Asia

The annual Fiesta Asia shuts down Pennsylvania Avenue between Third and Sixth streets NW to showcase more than 20 Asian cultures in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Look for live music and dance performances representing multiple countries, a karaoke stage, a cosplay contest, martial arts demonstrations, hands-on games and crafts for kids, a large vendor area, and a “food alley” featuring local and New York City restaurants that is apparently 50 percent larger than last year’s. Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free .

Loudoun Farm Tour

The Loudoun Farm Tour is a way to immerse city slickers — kids and adults alike — in the rural communities on the other side of Dulles Airport. The 38 farms open their doors for more than just talks about farm management or letting kids come face to face with barnyard friends such as pigs, donkeys and llamas. Over two days, taste raw honey straight from an apiary or try a scoop of all-natural ice cream on a dairy farm. Learn how craft beer goes from the field to the bottle or tour farms dedicated to mushrooms, garlic or tea leaves. This year, the tour includes shuttle buses running on loops between farms, leaving from four locations, including the Ashburn Metro station. Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free; farms may charge for tours and activities .

Africa on the Avenue at Bruce Monroe Park

Washington’s African heritage and community are celebrated during Africa on the Avenue, held in Park View’s Bruce Monroe Park on Saturday. There’s music from a variety of DJs and artists, including the Ethiopian fusion of the Feedel Band, the Grammy-nominated songs of Malian griot Cheick Hamala Diabate, and the Farafina Kan drummers and dancers. For families, there’s a foam party, double Dutch, hula hoops and interactive art projects. Vendors will be selling African coffee, head wraps, braiding, clothing, books and pepper sauces. Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Free .

Bladensburg Waterfront Art Festival

Painting and pontoon boats meet at Bladensburg Waterfront Park’s outdoor arts party, which features a market of local artists, hands-on community art projects, demonstrations and activities for kids. Adults can sip beer or wine, and all ages can enjoy live music and free boat tours on the Anacostia River. Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. Free .

Lincoln Strawberry Festival

Supermarket strawberries have nothing on a freshly picked red berry, which you’ll find in abundance at the inaugural Lincoln Strawberry Festival in Loudoun County. This two-day fundraiser from Wegmeyer Farms begins Saturday morning with a strawberry pancake smorgasbord (buy a separate breakfast ticket in advance) and continues with musical performances, a strawberry baby fashion show, tractor rides, and eating competitions for strawberry pie and strawberry ice cream. Sunday’s schedule is similar, swapping in 4-H animal presentations in the morning instead of pancakes. Each day, you’ll be able to pick your own strawberries for purchase while supplies last. Proceeds benefit a variety of local causes. Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. $15; free for kids age 2 and under .

The Running of the Chihuahuas at the Wharf

The Wharf’s quirky combination of the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo is back for the 12th year on Sunday, after rain on May 4 postponed the original event. The annual Running of the Chihuahuas involves more than 100 of these tiny dogs sprinting in groups of eight on a 60-foot “racetrack.” One Chihuahua eventually emerges as the fastest of the pack, winning $100 cash and swag during this bracket-style tournament. Only Chihuahuas can race, but dogs of all types can enter an all-breed dog costume contest, while human spectators enjoy the Pacifico Beer Garden, a DJ, a pet photo booth and an adoptable-dog parade. This event is very popular: Arrive early for the best views of the track, or watch on a giant video projection screen. Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. Free admission. All spots for racing Chihuahuas are filled.

The Weekend Scene: What to do in the DC area for Memorial Day weekend

A giant bounce house, memorial day observances and outdoor movies are on tap for the long weekend kicking off summer 2024., by sophia barnes and tommy mcfly, news4 scene reporter • published may 23, 2024 • updated on may 24, 2024 at 7:26 am, subscribe to the weekend scene newsletter to get our picks delivered straight to your inbox — every wednesday.

Hello, summer! We hope this long weekend is packed with fun and opportunities to relax and recharge.

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Early summer means strawberry picking! Pickyourown.org has extensive guides for Northern Virginia and nearby Maryland .

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World's Largest Bounce House

The “world’s largest bounce house” is back in Fort Washington for the next three weekends. Adults-only jump sessions are on the menu!

Outdoor movies

You can find a movie under the stars almost every night of the week across the DMV.

• If we had to pick a favorite series, we’d say it’s Extraordinary Cinema at The Kennedy Center’s REACH , kicking off Friday with “Jurassic Park.” Sunset views over the Potomac, a good concessions bar, nice indoor bathrooms and free entry: What more could you want?
• Cinematery at the historic Congressional Cemetery is a close second for immaculate spooky vibes and the option to BYOB (yes, including some cold beers or canned cocktails). The season starts on Friday with "Beetlejuice."  Tickets cost $10 and tend to sell out quickly.

Most movies start at sunset (about 8:20 p.m. right now). Here are all the details and more places to watch a film outdoors.

The most fun things to do and places to be in D.C., Maryland and Virginia

Where to watch outdoor movies all summer long in DC, Maryland and Virginia

Black Pride Week kicks off with reception in DC

Pool season begins

D.C.’s public pools welcome swimming season with the “Jump in, D.C.” event at Anacostia Pool Friday at 3 p.m. There will be free good, games, activities and music. Register here. You can find locations and hours for pools and spray parks here.

Northern Virginia’s waterparks are also set to open up this weekend (Except for Volcano Island, which will open later because of mechanical issues).

On Saturday, Montgomery County's outdoor pools open for the season.

Don’t forget to cool off in Prince George’s County, where pools and splash parks open as early as Saturday.

DC Black Pride

DC Black Pride is a weekend packed with the Mr. & Miss DC Black Pride Pageant, free workshops, a poetry slam, Pride by the River in Anacostia Park and more.

War and Treaty with U.S. Airforce Band Sun., The Theater at MGM National Harbor, free but registration required Details

Looking for indoor plans? D.C.’s own War and Treaty will perform along with the U.S. Air Force Band at MGM National Harbor. It’s free, but you’ll need to register online beforehand.

Honoring Memorial Day

Enjoy a concert at the U.S. Capitol, place flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider or see a moving tribute with 600,000 poppies on the National Mall to mark Memorial Day.

Some special observances include:

• Arlington National Cemetery: Flowers of Remembrance Day  (Sun.): Flowers of Remembrance Day is “the only time of the year where visitors can walk across the Memorial Plaza and place a flower before the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,” according to The Memorial Day Flowers Foundation, which provides all flowers for the commemoration.
• National Memorial Day Concert (Sun., 8 p.m., U.S . Capitol): Head to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for a patriotic concert hosted by Bryan Cranston. You can also attend the dress rehearsal on Saturday.
• USAA Poppy Wall of Honor (Fri., Sat.. and Sun., National Mall): More than 600,000 poppies – the flower of remembrance – will cover a 133-foot-long wall on the National Mall to commemorate servicemembers who have lost their lives since World War I.
• National Memorial Day Parade (Mon., 2 p.m., Constitution Avenue between 7th and 17th Streets NW, free): Line up anywhere along the parade route to watch marching bands and more in the Memorial Day parade hosted by Anthony Anderson and Drew Carey.

Concerts this weekend

MIKE, 7 p.m. Friday, Union Stage, $25

Incredibly prolific rapper/producer with a straightforward, narrative style with flow and delivery that’s brilliant in its subtlety. His vocals are more about being part of the music he's making. Details.

Matthew Logan Vasquez, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, DC9, $20-$25

The longtime frontman of the American-leaning rock band Delta Spirit and member of indie folk rock supergroup Middle Brother is touring his solo material. It leans more pop and whimsical but still leaves room for more serious, contemplative moments. Details.

Things to do in D.C.

Washington Spirit vs Seattle Reign Fri., 7:30 p.m., Audi Field, $15+

DC United vs Chicago Fire Sat., 7:30 p.m., Audi Field, $21+

Washington Nationals vs. Seattle Mariners Fri., Sat. and Sun., Nationals Park, $13+

East African Music Festival Colors of the East Fri., Capital One Arena

Pixar Putt Opens Sat., The Wharf, $32+ for adults

Things to do in Maryland

Broccoli City Fit Day Sat., 9 a.m. to noon, 8055 Penn Randall Place in Upper Marlboro, $15

Caribbean Festival Sat. and Sun., Linganore Winecellars in Mt. Airy, $35-$99

Red Hot Blues & BBQ Fri. to Mon., Glen Echo Park, $20-$30

Things to do in Virginia

Meet the U.S. Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard | Thurs. 3-6 p.m. and Fri. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, 

Memorial Day at the National Army Museum Fri. to Mon., Fort Belvoir, free ( reservations encouraged)

Art in Nature Festival Fri. to Sun., noon to 5 p.m., National Botanic Garden in Chantilly, $35 per person (in advance)

Viva! Vienna! Sat. to Mon., Vienna, Virginia, unlimited ride wristband starts at $45

Virginia Renaissance Faire Sat. and Sun., Spotsylvania Courthouse, $18 (adult) Also June 1-2 and 8-9

Strawberry Jubilee Fest at Great Country Farms Sat. and Sun., plus June 1-2, Bluemont, $15 (adult)/$13 (child) purchased in advance

Falls Church Memorial Day Parade & Festival Mon., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., free Parade on Park Avenue

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